Pternistis squamatus
The Scaly Spurfowl, *Pternistis squamatus*, is a medium-sized gamebird belonging to the Phasianidae family, notable for its cryptic forest dwelling habits and distinctive vocalizations. Measuring 33-37 cm in length and weighing between 370-730g, it exhibits a predominantly dark brown plumage heavily scaled with white or pale buff on its underparts, providing excellent camouflage amidst forest leaf litter. A key identification feature includes dark brown head and neck, coupled with dull red ba...
This species primarily inhabits dense tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and thickets, frequently utilizing secondary growth and plantations, occurring from sea level up to 3,000 meters elevation.
Primarily omnivorous, its diet includes a diverse range of seeds, wild fruits, roots, tubers, and various invertebrates such as termites, beetles, and grubs, gleaned by scratching through leaf litter.
Active primarily during dawn and dusk, the Scaly Spurfowl forages on the forest floor, scratching vigorously through leaf litter to unearth food before roosting in trees at night. This species is typically monogamous, forming pairs or small family coveys of 3-5 individuals. Courtship often involv...
The Scaly Spurfowl is a widespread resident across the Afromontane and lowland forests of Central and East Africa. Its extensive range extends from Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Gabon, and Angola in the west, eastward through the Democratic Republic of Congo, and into Uganda, Rwanda, Bu...
Least Concern
- Its scientific genus name *Pternistis* comes from Ancient Greek, meaning 'heel spur', referring to the prominent spurs on the male's legs. - Despite its loud and distinctive calls, the Scaly Spurfowl is notoriously shy and difficult to observe, often heard but rarely seen in its dense forest ha...